National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, chairman of the Otzma Yehudit party, unveiled a proposal Thursday to overhaul the IDF’s ethical code, known as Ruach Tzahal (“Spirit of the IDF”), as part of his plans to seek the Defense Ministry portfolio in the next government.
The most significant change would replace the longstanding military principle of Tohar HaNeshek (“Purity of Arms”) with Tzidkat HaNeshek (“Righteousness of Arms”).
Under the proposed wording, soldiers would use their weapons to defeat the enemy, guided by the Jewish teaching, “If someone comes to kill you, rise early and kill him first.”
AFSI Insight
AFSI supports the principle that the IDF’s primary mission must be to defeat Israel’s enemies and ensure the security of the Jewish people. Replacing “Purity of Arms” with “Righteousness of Arms” reflects the importance of grounding military ethics in Jewish values, the Bible, and the just cause of defending the Jewish homeland. Israeli soldiers must be empowered to win wars decisively, protect their fellow soldiers, and defend Israel without allowing misplaced restraints to undermine victory.